Trailer system, method for transporting objects by trailer system, and trailer jack system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a trailer system comprising: - a first trailer module including: - a plurality of wheels; - a loading bed; - a primary loading bed connector for connecting to the loading bed of a further trailer module to form a combined rigid loading bed, the primary loading bed connector being positioned below an upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module; - a first jack system including a first jack cradle including: - a jack holder and a jack housed in the jack holder; and - a primary cradle connector connected to the primary loading bed connector of the first trailer module, thereby connecting the first jack cradle to the first trailer module, the jack holder extending at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a trailer system, a method for transporting an object by the trailer system, and a trailer jack system.

Background Art

[0002] It is known to use a modular trailer system (e.g., a self-propelled modular trailer system) to transport large and / or heavy objects such as pipe racks, bridge decks, or buildings. The modular trailer system can include a plurality of trailer modules. Each trailer module includes a plurality of wheels, which in many cases can be individually controlled such that the trailer module can move over a surface in any desired direction (including laterally and around its own central axis). Each trailer module further includes a loading bed for supporting the object to be moved. The object can be placed directly on the loading bed and / or supported by an object support, and the object support is supported by the loading bed. The trailer modules are connected to each other longitudinally and / or transversely to obtain a combined loading bed, which is larger than the loading beds of the individual trailer modules. The combined loading bed is rigid to maintain the stability of the load. Thus, the loading beds of the individual modules are not, for example, hingedly connected to each other. Also, this is not necessary. The reason is that the wheels of the trailer modules are often individually controlled and can be individually rotated around both horizontal and vertical axes. Also, the trailer modules can be used individually when the size and weight of the object to be transported allow this.

[0003] To pick up the object to be transported, a loading bed of a trailer module, or a loading bed formed by combining multiple interconnected trailer modules, is positioned beneath the object. To accommodate this, the object may need to be lifted and placed on temporary ground supports. The object is then lowered onto the loading bed, or onto loading bed supports on the trailer module loading bed, to prepare the object for transport. The loading bed supports may be stationary or movable (e.g., in the form of jacks). In some designs, the loading bed of a trailer module may be moved vertically over a limited stroke (e.g., 600 mm). In that case, the loading bed may be moved upward within a limited range, lifting the object away from the temporary ground supports, so that the object can be fully supported on the loading beds of one or more trailer modules, and the temporary ground supports can be removed.

[0004] In many cases, this approach requires a significant amount of time, labor, and materials (especially support materials). The large amount of materials required means that more materials need to be transported to the site where the object will be positioned, which increases the CO2 footprint of the transport project. In addition, when loading bed supports need to be used, this increases the overall height of the trailer system, which results in more free space being required below the object, forcing the trailer module to be positioned below it. This can also affect the stability of the trailer system, as this results in a higher center of gravity when the object must be engaged at a considerable height. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Dutch Patent No. 1042448 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide a trailer system that limits the need for high loading bed support above the loading bed of the trailer module. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The object of the present invention is obtained by a trailer system, and the trailer system is - The first trailer module, the first trailer module is, - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed, and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a first trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, The first trailer module includes, - A first jacking system including a first jack cradle, the first jack cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed within the jack holder, and - Primary cradle connector, the primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the first trailer module, thereby connecting the first jack cradle to the first trailer module, Includes, The jack holder of the first jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and is part of the first jack system. Includes.

[0008] The trailer system according to the present invention includes a first trailer module. The first trailer module is, for example, a trailer module of a self-propelled modular trailer system, or a trailer module that can be connected to a truck.

[0009] The first trailer module includes multiple wheels. Optionally, at least some (and optionally, all) of the wheels are rotatable around a horizontal axis and pivotable or rotatable around a vertical axis. Optionally, the position of each wheel around its vertical rotation axis can be controlled individually, allowing the first trailer module to move in all directions over the surface on which it is positioned. Optionally, the rotational speed of each wheel around its horizontal rotation axis can be controlled individually. Optionally, the wheels are grouped in pairs, and the rotation around the horizontal axis and / or around the vertical axis is controlled for each pair of wheels.

[0010] In a modified version of the present invention, the first trailer module includes one or more groups of wheels provided with one or more tracks.

[0011] The first trailer module further includes a loading bed. The object to be transported will either be placed directly on the loading bed or on a loading bed support that is placed on the loading bed. The loading bed has an upper surface.

[0012] The first trailer module further includes a primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the first trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed. The primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module.

[0013] To implement the present invention, the first trailer module does not need to be connected to any further trailer modules.

[0014] The trailer system according to the present invention further includes a first jack system, the first jack system including a first jack cradle.

[0015] The jack cradle includes a jack holder and a jack. The jack is housed inside the jack holder.

[0016] The jack cradle further includes a primary cradle connector, which is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the first trailer module. Thereafter, the primary cradle connector connects the first jack cradle to the first trailer module. Thus, in other applications of the first trailer module, the connector provided on the first trailer module to connect the first trailer module to a further trailer is instead used, according to the present invention, to connect the first trailer module to the first jack cradle.

[0017] According to the present invention, the jack holder of the first jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module. Optionally, the jack holder of the first jack cradle extends fully below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module.

[0018] Optionally, the jack holder extends at least partially below the primary cradle connector. Optionally, the jack holder extends entirely below the primary cradle connector.

[0019] Optionally, the jack extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module and / or below the primary cradle connector. Optionally, the jack extends fully below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module and / or below the primary cradle connector.

[0020] The jack in the jack system is either a jack or forms part of a jack, as disclosed in Patent Document 1.

[0021] Optionally, the loading bed of the first trailer module has a long side and a short side, and the first jacking system is connected to the short side of the loading bed. Optionally, the first jacking system does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the first trailer module to which it is connected, and thus the width of the first jacking system fully extends between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is on the opposite side of the first longitudinal end) of the short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. The first jacking system can extend above and / or below the short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. Optionally, the first jacking cradle does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the trailer module to which it is connected. Thus, the width of the first jacking cradle fully extends between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is on the opposite side of the first longitudinal end) of the short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. The first jacking cradle can extend above and / or below the short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module.

[0022] The trailer system according to the present invention enables the transportation of an object in the vertical direction (by means of a jack) and in the horizontal direction (by means of a trailer module on its wheels) without the need to switch from one support location on the object to another. This is advantageous, for example, for long and flexible objects (such as pipe racks). The number of places where they can be effectively supported is limited, and thus all available support places can be used without the need to transfer from one support place to another.

[0023] In addition, the trailer system according to the present invention has a compact design. By integrating the jack system into the trailer system, there is no need to place a separate jack on the loading bed, which makes it possible to reduce the height of the trailer system. The jack system is positioned at a level lower than the loading bed, and thus, even if it extends above the upper surface of the loading bed, it will do so in a smaller extent than when the jack system would be mounted on the loading bed as was done in the prior art. This compact arrangement eliminates the need to lift the object to be transported to a high level and to support the object at this high level before placing the trailer module under the object.

[0024] In addition, placing the jack in a cradle that extends under the loading bed of the trailer makes it possible to support the object at a level near the loading bed during transportation. This increases the stability of the object and the trailer system during the transportation of the object.

[0025] The transport of large and / or heavy objects must be designed on a case-by-case basis. The structure of the object must be taken into consideration (where is the center of gravity, how flexible or rigid is the object, and what level of mechanical load can each part of the object withstand?). Then, it can be determined how the modules of the trailer system are assembled so that the object can be transported in a safe manner. The mechanical properties of the trailer system (e.g., the forces, moments, and torques that the loading beds of the trailer modules can withstand, as well as the pressure on individual wheels) play a crucial role in this. When multiple trailer modules are connected to each other, the loading beds of these trailer modules must act as a single combined rigid loading bed, and therefore, among other things, moments and torques must be transmitted from the loading bed of one trailer module to another. However, the mechanical load on a primary loading bed connector when it is used to connect one loading bed to the loading bed of a further trailer module is completely different from the mechanical load it experiences when it supports a jacking system. The jacking system can introduce considerable vertical forces and resulting bending moments at the edges of the loading bed, whereas these forces and bending moments are absent or significantly reduced when the loading beds of two trailer modules are connected to each other. Therefore, it is rather surprising that the primary loading bed connector has been shown to be suitable for supporting the jacking system.

[0026] In addition, the trailer system according to the present invention eliminates or at least reduces the need to apply a load spreader to support the trailer system. The load is typically well distributed due to the presence of multiple wheels.

[0027] The trailer system according to the present invention enables, for example, picking up an object to be transported at a low position in one location, transporting it to a destination, and lifting the object upward to a considerable height (e.g., at least 6 meters high), while supporting the object in the same location during transport and lifting by a single trailer system and without or with very limited additional local rigging.

[0028] In an embodiment of the trailer system according to the present invention, the jack has an upper jack surface. The upper jack surface is the surface of the jack that engages with an object to be jacked up or jacked down. This object to be jacked up or jacked down can be, for example, an object to be transported or a jack cassette of the jack system. The upper jack surface can be retracted to a position below the level of the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, or to the same level as the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module.

[0029] This embodiment offers a very compact design. Since the upper jack surface can be retracted to or below the upper surface of the loading bed, the jack system does not add height to the trailer system, which allows the trailer system to be positioned below an object located at a relatively low position (for example, 1.5 meters above ground level).

[0030] The jack in the jack system is either a jack or forms part of a jack, as disclosed in Patent Document 1.

[0031] The jacking system is optionally adapted to move the object to be transported vertically over a distance of at least 6 meters.

[0032] In an embodiment of the trailer system according to the present invention, the jack system further includes a jack cassette. Optionally, the jack system includes a plurality of jack cassettes. The jack cassettes are used to lift (or lower) an object over a length greater than the stroke length of the jack. The jack is adapted to lift a first jack cassette over its stroke length, and thus the jack is moved to its extended position, engaging with the first jack cassette. The first jack cassette is then supported in this position, and the jack retracts to its retracted position. A second jack cassette is positioned on the jack surface, and the first jack cassette remains supported in a higher position. The jack then lifts the second jack cassette, and the first jack cassette moves upward together with the second jack cassette. This process is then repeated until the first jack cassette reaches its desired height. The steps are performed in reverse order to lower the first jack cassette again.

[0033] In this embodiment, the jack has an upper jack surface that is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The jack holder has an opening that allows a jack cassette to be inserted onto the upper jack surface when the upper jack surface is in its retracted position. The opening is located, for example, on the side or bottom of the jack holder.

[0034] The retracted position of the upper jack surface is optionally positioned below the level of the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module.

[0035] The jack in the jack system is either a jack or forms part of a jack, as disclosed in Patent Document 1.

[0036] The jacking system is optionally adapted to move the object to be transported vertically over a distance of at least 6 meters.

[0037] In an embodiment of the trailer system according to the present invention, the first trailer module further includes a power unit (also known in the art as a power pack), which is adapted to control the rotation of the wheels of the first trailer module. The power unit is positioned on the first trailer module on the opposite side from where the first jack cradle is connected to the first trailer module.

[0038] Optionally, in this embodiment, the trailer module includes a secondary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a first trailer module to the loading bed of a second further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed. The secondary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module. The secondary loading bed connector is located on the opposite side of the loading bed from the primary loading bed connector. Optionally, a power unit is connected to the trailer module by the secondary loading bed connector.

[0039] Optionally, the power unit is configured to control the rotation of the wheels of the first trailer module. Optionally, the power unit is configured to control the rotation of the wheels of the first trailer module around a horizontal rotation axis and around a vertical rotation axis. Optionally, the power unit is configured to independently control the rotation of each of the multiple wheels of the first trailer module. Optionally, the power unit is configured to independently control the rotation of each of the multiple wheels of the first trailer module around a horizontal rotation axis and around a vertical rotation axis. Optionally, the power unit is configured to control the rotational speed of each wheel around its horizontal rotation axis.

[0040] Optionally, the additional trailer module may be directly connected to the first trailer module, or connected to the opposite side of the jack cradle from the side on which the first trailer module is connected to the jack cradle. Optionally, the power unit is configured to control the rotation of the wheels of the first trailer module and the additional trailer module. Optionally, the power unit is configured to control the rotation of the wheels of the first trailer module and the additional trailer module around the horizontal rotation axis and around the vertical rotation axis. Optionally, the power unit is configured to independently control the rotation of each of the multiple wheels of the first trailer module and the additional trailer module. Optionally, the power unit is configured to independently control the rotation of each of the multiple wheels of the first trailer module and the additional trailer module around the horizontal rotation axis and around the vertical rotation axis. Optionally, the power unit is configured to control the rotational speed of each wheel around its horizontal rotation axis.

[0041] The power unit optionally includes a hydraulic system for controlling the rotation of at least one wheel, optionally for controlling the rotation of all wheels on a single trailer module, optionally for controlling the rotation of all wheels on all trailer modules in a trailer system.

[0042] The power unit is configured to control the jacks of the jacking system at will.

[0043] In one embodiment, the trailer system according to the present invention further includes a second trailer module, the second trailer module being - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a second trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, Includes.

[0044] In this embodiment, the first jack cradle includes a secondary cradle connector, which is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the second trailer module, thereby connecting the first jack cradle to the second trailer module.

[0045] In this embodiment, the first jack cradle is positioned between the first trailer module and the second trailer module.

[0046] In this embodiment, the second trailer module is connected to the jack cradle of the jack system. Thus, the trailer system in this embodiment includes the following array: first trailer module - first jack system - second trailer module.

[0047] Optionally, the power unit described above may be connected to either the first or second trailer unit.

[0048] Optionally, additional trailer modules and / or additional jacking systems may be present in this embodiment of the trailer system.

[0049] Optionally, the loading bed of the first trailer module has a long side and a short side, and the first jack system is connected to the short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. Similarly, the loading bed of the second trailer module has a long side and a short side, and the first jack system is connected to the short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. Optionally, the first jack system does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the first trailer module to which it is connected, nor does it extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the second trailer module to which it is connected. Therefore, the width of the first jacking system fully extends between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and also fully extends between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. The first jacking system can extend above and / or below the short side of the loading bed of the first and / or second trailer module.

[0050] Optionally, the first jack cradle does not extend beyond the width of the loading beds of the first and second trailer modules to which it is connected. Thus, the width of the first jack cradle fully extends between the first and second longitudinal ends (which are opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and also fully extends between the first and second longitudinal ends (which are opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. The first jack cradle can extend above and / or below the short sides of the loading beds of the first and / or second trailer modules.

[0051] In one embodiment, the trailer system according to the present invention further includes a third trailer module, the third trailer module being - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a third trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the third trailer module, Includes.

[0052] In this embodiment, the trailer system further includes a second jacking system including a second jacking cradle, the second jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed inside the jack holder, - A primary cradle connector, the primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the third trailer module, thereby connecting the second jack cradle to the third trailer module, Includes.

[0053] In this embodiment, the jack holder of the second jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the third trailer module. Optionally, the jack holder of the second jack cradle extends fully below the upper surface of the loading bed of the third trailer module.

[0054] Optionally, the loading bed of the third trailer module has a long side and a short side, and the second jack system is connected to the short side of the loading bed of the third trailer module. Optionally, the second jack system does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the third trailer module to which it is connected, and therefore the width of the second jack system extends entirely between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the short side of the loading bed of the third trailer module. The second jack system may extend above and / or below the short side of the loading bed of the third trailer module. Optionally, the second jack cradle does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the third trailer module. Therefore, the width of the second jack cradle fully extends between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the short side of the loading bed of the third trailer module. The second jack cradle can extend above and / or below the short side of the loading bed of the third trailer module.

[0055] In this embodiment, the trailer system further includes a first connector beam, the first connector beam having a first end connected to a first jack cradle and a second end connected to a second jack cradle.

[0056] In this embodiment, there are two arrays, each containing a trailer module and a jacking system attached thereto. The first array includes a first trailer module and a first jacking system. The second array includes a third trailer module and a second jacking system. The two arrays are connected to each other via a first connector beam, which extends between the jacking cradle of the first array and the jacking cradle of the second array. The first connector beam is optionally a solid beam, a hollow beam, and / or a grid beam, or includes them.

[0057] The arrays are arranged arbitrarily, adjacent to one another.

[0058] The two arrays may be identical to each other, or they may be different to each other.

[0059] At least one of the two arrays optionally includes a power unit as described above.

[0060] Optionally, additional trailer modules and / or additional jacking systems may be present in at least one of the arrays.

[0061] The present invention further relates to a trailer system, wherein the trailer system is - The first trailer module, the first trailer module is, - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a first trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and - A secondary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a first trailer module to the loading bed of a second further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the secondary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and the secondary loading bed connector is located on the opposite side of the loading bed relative to the primary loading bed connector, The first trailer module includes, - A first jacking system including a first jack cradle, the first jack cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed within the jack holder, and - Primary cradle connector, the primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the first trailer module, thereby connecting the first jack cradle to the first trailer module, Includes, The jack holder of the first jack system extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and the first jack system, - A second jacking system including a second jacking cradle, the second jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed within the jack holder, and - A primary cradle connector, the primary cradle connector is connected to the secondary loading bed connector of the first trailer module, thereby connecting the second jack cradle to the first trailer module. Includes, The jack holder of the second jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and is part of the second jack system. - A second trailer module, the second trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a second trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, and - A secondary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a second trailer module to the loading bed of a second further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the secondary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, and the secondary loading bed connector is located on the opposite side of the loading bed relative to the primary loading bed connector, Including a second trailer module, - A third jacking system including a third jacking cradle, the third jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed within the jack holder, and - Primary cradle connector, wherein the primary cradle is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the second trailer module, thereby connecting the third jack cradle to the second trailer module, Includes, The jack holder of the third jack system extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, and the third jack system is connected to the third jack system. - A fourth jacking system including a fourth jacking cradle, the fourth jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed within the jack holder, and - Primary cradle connector, the primary cradle connector is connected to the secondary loading bed connector of the second trailer module, thereby connecting the fourth jack cradle to the second trailer module, primary cradle connector, Includes, The jack holder of the fourth jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, as part of the fourth jack system. - A first connector beam, the first connector beam having a first end connected to a first jack cradle and a second end connected to a third jack cradle, - A second connector beam, the second connector beam having a first end connected to a second jack cradle and a second end connected to a fourth jack cradle, This includes information about trailer systems.

[0062] In this version of the trailer system according to the present invention, there are two arrays, each having a jack system-trailer module-jack system configuration. The first array includes a first jack system, a first trailer module, and a second jack system. The second array includes a third jack system, a second trailer module, and a fourth jack system. The two arrays are connected to each other via a first connector beam and a second connector beam. The first connector beam extends between a first jack cradle (which forms part of the first array) and a third jack cradle (which forms part of the second array). The second connector beam extends between a second jack cradle (which forms part of the first array) and a fourth jack cradle (which forms part of the second array). The first connector beam is optionally a solid beam, a hollow beam, and / or a grid beam, or includes one. The second connector beam is optionally a solid beam, a hollow beam, and / or a grid beam, or includes one.

[0063] The arrays are arranged arbitrarily, adjacent to one another.

[0064] The two arrays may be identical to each other, or they may be different to each other.

[0065] At least one of the two arrays optionally includes a power unit as described above.

[0066] Optionally, additional trailer modules and / or additional jacking systems may be present in at least one of the arrays.

[0067] Optionally, the loading bed of the first trailer module has a long side and a first short side, and the first jack system is connected to the first short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. Optionally, the first jack system does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and therefore the width of the first jack system extends entirely between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. The first jack system may extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. Optionally, the first jack cradle does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the first trailer module. Therefore, the width of the first jack cradle fully extends between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. The first jack cradle can extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module.

[0068] Optionally, alternatively, or in addition, the loading bed of the first trailer module has a second short side, and the second jack system is connected to the second short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. Optionally, the second jack system does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and therefore the width of the second jack system extends entirely between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the second short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. The second jack system may extend above and / or below the second short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. Optionally, the second jack cradle does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the first trailer module. Therefore, the width of the second jack cradle fully extends between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the second short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. The second jack cradle can extend above and / or below the second short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module.

[0069] Optionally, alternatively, or in addition, the loading bed of the second trailer module has a long side and a first short side, and the third jack system is connected to the first short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. Optionally, the third jack system does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the second trailer module, and therefore the width of the third jack system extends entirely between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. The third jack system may extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. Optionally, the third jack cradle does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the second trailer module. Therefore, the width of the third jack cradle fully extends between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. The third jack cradle can extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module.

[0070] Optionally, alternatively, or in addition, the loading bed of the second trailer module has a second short side, and the fourth jack system is connected to the second short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. Optionally, the fourth jack system does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the second trailer module, and therefore the width of the fourth jack system extends entirely between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the second short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. The fourth jack system may extend above and / or below the second short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. Optionally, the fourth jack cradle does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the second trailer module. Therefore, the width of the fourth jack cradle fully extends between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the second short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. The fourth jack cradle can extend above and / or below the second short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module.

[0071] The present invention further relates to a trailer system, wherein the trailer system is - The first trailer module, the first trailer module is, - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a first trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and - A secondary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a first trailer module to the loading bed of a second further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the secondary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and the secondary loading bed connector is located on the opposite side of the loading bed relative to the primary loading bed connector, The first trailer module includes, - A first jacking system including a first jack cradle, the first jack cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed within the jack holder, and - Primary cradle connector, the primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the first trailer module, thereby connecting the first jack cradle to the first trailer module, Includes, The jack holder of the first jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and is part of the first jack system. - A second trailer module, the second trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a second trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, and - A secondary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a second trailer module to the loading bed of a second further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the secondary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, and the secondary loading bed connector is located on the opposite side of the loading bed relative to the primary loading bed connector, Including a second trailer module, - A second jacking system including a second jacking cradle, the second jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed within the jack holder, and - Primary cradle connector, the primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the second trailer module, thereby connecting the second jack cradle to the second trailer module, Includes, The jack holder of the second jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module. The secondary loading bed connector of the first trailer module is connected to the secondary loading bed connector of the second trailer module, which is connected to the second jack system. - The third trailer module, the third trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a third trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the third trailer module, and - A secondary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a third trailer module to the loading bed of a second further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the secondary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the third trailer module, and the secondary loading bed connector is located on the opposite side of the loading bed relative to the primary loading bed connector, A third trailer module, including, - A third jacking system including a third jacking cradle, the third jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed within the jack holder, and - Primary cradle connector, the primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the third trailer module, thereby connecting the third jack cradle to the third trailer module, primary cradle connector, Includes, The jack holder of the third jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the third trailer module, and is part of the third jack system. - The fourth trailer module, the fourth trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a fourth trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the fourth trailer module, and - A secondary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a fourth trailer module to the loading bed of a second further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the secondary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the fourth trailer module, and the secondary loading bed connector is located on the opposite side of the loading bed relative to the primary loading bed connector, Including the fourth trailer module, - A fourth jacking system including a fourth jacking cradle, the fourth jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed within the jack holder, and - Primary cradle connector, the primary cradle connector is connected to the secondary loading bed connector of the fourth trailer module, thereby connecting the fourth jack cradle to the fourth trailer module, primary cradle connector, Includes, The jack holder of the fourth jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the fourth trailer module. The secondary loading bed connector of the third trailer module is connected to the secondary loading bed connector of the fourth trailer module, which is the fourth jack system. - A first connector beam, the first connector beam having a first end connected to a first jack cradle and a second end connected to a third jack cradle, - A second connector beam, the second connector beam having a first end connected to a second jack cradle and a second end connected to a fourth jack cradle, This includes information about trailer systems.

[0072] In this version of the trailer system according to the present invention, there are two arrays, each having a configuration of jack system-trailer module-trailer module-jack system. The first array includes a first jack system, a first trailer module, a second trailer module, and a second jack system. The second array includes a third jack system, a third trailer module, a fourth trailer module, and a fourth jack system. The two arrays are connected to each other via a first connector beam and a second connector beam. The first connector beam extends between a first jack cradle (which forms part of the first array) and a third jack cradle (which forms part of the second array). The second connector beam extends between the second jack cradle (which forms part of the first array) and the fourth jack cradle (which also forms part of the second array). The first connector beam is optionally a solid beam, a hollow beam, and / or a lattice beam, or includes one. The second connector beam is optionally a solid beam, a hollow beam, and / or a lattice beam, or includes one.

[0073] The arrays are arranged arbitrarily, adjacent to one another.

[0074] The two arrays may be identical to each other, or they may be different to each other.

[0075] At least one of the two arrays optionally includes a power unit as described above.

[0076] Optionally, additional trailer modules and / or additional jacking systems may be present in at least one of the arrays.

[0077] Optionally, the loading bed of the first trailer module has a long side and a first short side, and the first jack system is connected to the first short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. Optionally, the first jack system does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and therefore the width of the first jack system extends entirely between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. The first jack system may extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. Optionally, the first jack cradle does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the first trailer module. Therefore, the width of the first jack cradle fully extends between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module. The first jack cradle can extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed of the first trailer module.

[0078] Optionally, alternatively, or in addition, the loading bed of the second trailer module has a long side and a first short side, and the second jack system is connected to the first short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. Optionally, the second jack system does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the second trailer module, and therefore the width of the second jack system extends entirely between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. The second jack system may extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. Optionally, the second jack cradle does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the second trailer module. Therefore, the width of the second jack cradle fully extends between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module. The second jack cradle can extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed of the second trailer module.

[0079] Optionally, alternatively, or in addition, the loading bed of the third trailer module has a long side and a first short side, and the third jack system is connected to the first short side of the loading bed of the third trailer module. Optionally, the third jack system does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the third trailer module, and therefore the width of the third jack system extends entirely between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed of the third trailer module. The third jack system may extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed of the third trailer module. Optionally, the third jack cradle does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the third trailer module. Therefore, the width of the third jack cradle fully extends between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed of the third trailer module. The third jack cradle can extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed of the third trailer module.

[0080] Optionally, alternatively, or in addition, the loading bed of the fourth trailer module has a long side and a first short side, and the fourth jack system is connected to the first short side of the loading bed of the fourth trailer module. Optionally, the fourth jack system does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the fourth trailer module, and therefore the width of the fourth jack system extends entirely between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed of the fourth trailer module. The fourth jack system may extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed of the fourth trailer module. Optionally, the fourth jack cradle does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed of the fourth trailer module. Therefore, the width of the fourth jack cradle fully extends between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed of the fourth trailer module. The fourth jack cradle can extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed of the fourth trailer module.

[0081] The present invention further relates to a trailer system, wherein the trailer system is - The first trailer module, the first trailer module is, - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed, - Primary connector located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, The first trailer module includes, - A first jacking system including a first jack cradle, the first jack cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed within the jack holder, and - Primary cradle connector, the primary cradle connector is connected to the primary connector of the first trailer module, thereby connecting the first jack cradle to the first trailer module, Includes, The jack holder of the first jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and is part of the first jack system. This includes information about trailer systems.

[0082] In this modification of the present invention, the first jacking system is connected to the primary connector of the first trailer module, which can be any suitable connector provided on the first trailer module below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module.

[0083] This modification makes it possible to provide combinations and arrays of trailer modules and jack systems in accordance with those described above. Furthermore, this modification may be used in the methods according to the present invention and the embodiments described therein.

[0084] Optionally, the primary connector is a primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a first trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed.

[0085] In this modified embodiment of the trailer system according to the present invention, the jack has an upper jack surface. The upper jack surface is the surface of the jack that engages with an object to be jacked up or jacked down. This object can be, for example, an object to be transported or a jack cassette of the jack system. The upper jack surface can be retracted to a position below the level of the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, or to the same level as the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module.

[0086] This embodiment offers a very compact design. Since the upper jack surface can be retracted to or below the upper surface of the loading bed, the jack system does not add height to the trailer system, which allows the trailer system to be positioned below an object located at a relatively low position (for example, 1.5 meters above ground level).

[0087] In this modified embodiment of the trailer system according to the present invention, the jack system further includes a jack cassette. Optionally, the jack system includes a plurality of jack cassettes. The jack cassettes are used to lift (or lower) an object over a length greater than the stroke length of the jack. The jack is adapted to lift a first jack cassette over its stroke length, and thus the jack is moved to its extended position while it engages with the first jack cassette. The first jack cassette is then fixed in place, and the jack retracts to its retracted position. A second jack cassette is positioned on the jack surface, while the first jack cassette remains supported, and its fixation is released. The jack then lifts the second jack cassette, and the first jack cassette moves upward together with the second jack cassette. Next, this process is repeated until the first jack cassette reaches its desired height. The steps are then performed in reverse order to lower the first jack cassette again.

[0088] In this embodiment, the jack has an upper jack surface that is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The jack holder has an opening that allows a jack cassette to be inserted onto the upper jack surface when the upper jack surface is in its retracted position. The opening is located, for example, on the side or bottom of the jack holder.

[0089] The retracted position of the upper jack surface is optionally positioned below the level of the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module.

[0090] In this modified embodiment of the trailer system according to the present invention, the first trailer module further includes a power unit (also known in the art as a power pack), which is adapted to control the rotation of the wheels of the first trailer module. The power unit is positioned on the first trailer module on the opposite side from where the first jack cradle is connected to the first trailer module.

[0091] Optionally in this embodiment, the trailer module includes a secondary connector. The secondary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module. The secondary connector is located on the opposite side of the loading bed from the primary connector. Optionally, the power unit is connected to the trailer module by the secondary connector.

[0092] Optionally, the power unit is configured to control the rotation of the wheels of the first trailer module. Optionally, the power unit is configured to control the rotation of the wheels of the first trailer module around a horizontal rotation axis and around a vertical rotation axis. Optionally, the power unit is configured to independently control the rotation of each of the multiple wheels of the first trailer module. Optionally, the power unit is configured to independently control the rotation of each of the multiple wheels of the first trailer module around a horizontal rotation axis and around a vertical rotation axis. Optionally, the power unit is configured to control the rotational speed of each wheel around its horizontal rotation axis.

[0093] Optionally, the additional trailer module may be directly connected to the first trailer module, or connected to the opposite side of the jack cradle from the side on which the first trailer module is connected to the jack cradle. Optionally, the power unit is configured to control the rotation of the wheels of the first trailer module and the additional trailer module. Optionally, the power unit is configured to control the rotation of the wheels of the first trailer module and the additional trailer module around the horizontal rotation axis and around the vertical rotation axis. Optionally, the power unit is configured to independently control the rotation of each of the multiple wheels of the first trailer module and the additional trailer module. Optionally, the power unit is configured to independently control the rotation of each of the multiple wheels of the first trailer module and the additional trailer module around the horizontal rotation axis and around the vertical rotation axis. Optionally, the power unit is configured to control the rotational speed of each wheel around its horizontal rotation axis.

[0094] The power unit optionally includes a hydraulic system for controlling the rotation of at least one wheel, optionally for controlling the rotation of all wheels on a single trailer module, optionally for controlling the rotation of all wheels on all trailer modules in a trailer system.

[0095] The power unit is configured to control the jacks of the jacking system at will.

[0096] The present invention further relates to a method for transporting an object by a trailer system, the method being: - A step of connecting a first jack system to a first trailer module in order to form a trailer system, wherein the first trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed, and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of a first trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, Includes, The first jacking system includes a first jacking cradle, and the first jacking cradle is - A jack holder and a jack housed within the jack holder, the jack having an upper jack surface, and, - Primary cradle connector, Includes, - The jack holder of the first jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module. The primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the first trailer module, thereby establishing a connection between the first jack cradle and the first trailer module, step by step. - The steps of positioning the upper jack surface of the jack below the level of the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, or at the same level as the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, - A step of positioning the loading bed of the first trailer module below the object to be transported, - A step of moving the upper jack surface upward until the jack system engages with the object, - A step of rotating the wheels of the first trailer module in order to move the trailer system and object to the destination, This includes methods.

[0097] Optionally, the trailer system according to the present invention may be used in this method.

[0098] In one embodiment, the method according to the present invention further includes the step of moving the upper jack surface upward until the jack system engages with the object, and then placing the object on the loading bed of the first trailer module. This step is accompanied by the step of lowering the upper surface of the jack.

[0099] In one embodiment, the method according to the present invention further includes the step of moving the object upward and / or downward by a jacking system after the trailer system and the object have been moved to the destination.

[0100] In one embodiment, the method according to the present invention involves moving the upper jack surface upward until the jack system engages with an object, - A step of positioning the first jack cassette above the upper jack surface, - A step of moving the upper jack surface upward, thereby raising the first jack cassette to a first raised position, - A step of supporting the first jack cassette in the first raised position, - A step of moving the upper jack surface downward while maintaining the first jack cassette in the first raised position, - The steps include positioning a second jack cassette above the upper jack surface and below the first jack cassette, - A step of moving the second jack cassette to the first raised position, thereby raising the first jack cassette to the second raised position which is above the first raised position, Includes.

[0101] The present invention further relates to a method for transporting an object by a trailer system, the method being: - A step of connecting a first jack system to a first trailer module in order to form a trailer system, wherein the first trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed, and, - Primary connector, the primary connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, Includes, The first jacking system includes a first jacking cradle, and the first jacking cradle is - A jack holder and a jack housed within the jack holder, the jack having an upper jack surface, and, - Primary cradle connector, Includes, - The jack holder of the first jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module. The primary cradle connector is connected to the primary connector of the first trailer module, thereby establishing a connection between the first jack cradle and the first trailer module. - The steps of positioning the upper jack surface of the jack below the level of the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, or at the same level as the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, - A step of positioning the loading bed of the first trailer module below the object to be transported, - A step of moving the upper jack surface upward until the jack system engages with the object, - A step of rotating the wheels of the first trailer module in order to move the trailer system and object to the destination, This includes methods.

[0102] Optionally, the trailer system according to the present invention may be used in this method.

[0103] The present invention further relates to a trailer jack system for moving trailer loads perpendicular to the loading bed of a first trailer module, The first trailer module includes a primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the first trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, the primary loading bed connector being located below the loading bed of the first trailer module. The trailer jack system includes a first jack cradle, and the first jack cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed inside the jack holder, - A primary cradle connector, the primary cradle connector is adapted to engage with the primary loading bed connector of a first trailer module, thereby connecting the jack cradle to the first trailer module, Includes, The present invention relates to a trailer jack system in which the jack holder of the first jack cradle extends at least partially below the primary cradle connector.

[0104] A trailer jack system can be used, for example, in a trailer system or method according to the present invention.

[0105] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings, which illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention in a non-limiting manner. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0106] [Figure 1]This figure schematically shows a first embodiment of the trailer system according to the present invention. [Figure 2] This figure schematically shows an embodiment of a jack cradle that may be used in the present invention. [Figure 3] This figure schematically illustrates an embodiment of a trailer jack system according to the present invention, which may also be used as a jack system in a trailer system and in a method for transporting an object according to the present invention. [Figure 4] This figure schematically shows a second embodiment of the trailer system 1 according to the present invention. [Figure 5] This figure schematically shows a third embodiment of the trailer system 1 according to the present invention. [Figure 6] This figure schematically shows a fourth embodiment of the trailer system 1 according to the present invention. [Figure 7] This diagram schematically shows a trailer system 1 according to the embodiment of Figure 6, in use for transporting pipe racks. [Figure 8] This diagram schematically shows two first trailer systems 1 according to the embodiment of Figure 6, used for transporting the bridge deck together. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0107] Figure 1 schematically shows a first embodiment of the trailer system 1 according to the present invention.

[0108] The trailer system 1 in Figure 1 includes a first trailer module 10. In this embodiment, the first trailer module 10 is a trailer module of a self-propelled modular trailer (SPMT) system.

[0109] The first trailer module 10 includes a plurality of wheels 11. Optionally, at least some (and optionally, all) of the wheels 11 are rotatable around a horizontal axis 12 and pivotable or rotatable around a vertical axis 13. Optionally, the position of each wheel 11 around its vertical axis of rotation 13 can be controlled individually, allowing the first trailer module 10 to move in all directions over the surface on which it is positioned. Optionally, the rotational speed of each wheel 11 around its horizontal axis of rotation 12 can be controlled individually.

[0110] In this embodiment, the wheels 11 are grouped in pairs, and rotation around the horizontal axis 12 and / or rotation around the vertical axis 13 is controlled for each pair of wheels.

[0111] The first trailer module 10 further includes a loading bed 15. The object to be transported will either be placed directly on the loading bed 15 or on a loading bed support that is placed on the loading bed 15. The loading bed has an upper surface 16.

[0112] The first trailer module 10 further includes a primary loading bed connector 17 for rigidly connecting the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10 to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed. The primary loading bed connector 17 is located below the upper surface 16 of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10.

[0113] The trailer system shown in Figure 1 further includes a first jacking system 20. The first jacking system 20 includes a first jacking cradle 21.

[0114] The first jack cradle 21 includes a jack holder 22 (see Figure 2) and a jack 23. The jack 23 is housed within the jack holder 22.

[0115] The first jack cradle 21 further includes a primary cradle connector 25, which is connected to the primary loading bed connector 17 of the first trailer module. Thereafter, the primary cradle connector 25 connects the first jack cradle 21 to the first trailer module 10.

[0116] The jack holder 22 extends at least partially below the upper surface 16 of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10. The jack holder 22 also extends at least partially below the primary cradle connector 25. In this embodiment, the jack 23 is positioned below the upper surface 16 of the loading bed 15, and also below the primary loading bed connector 17 and below the primary cradle connector 25.

[0117] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the first jack cradle 21 further includes a secondary cradle connector 26, which allows for the attachment of additional trailer modules and / or jack systems to the trailer system shown in Figure 1.

[0118] As can be seen in Figure 1, the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10 has a long side and a first short side, and the first jack system 20 is connected to the first short side of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10. The first jack system 20 does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10, and therefore the width of the first jack system 20 extends entirely between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10. The first jack system 20 can extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10. In the embodiment of Figure 1, the first jack cradle 21 does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10. Therefore, the width of the first jack cradle 21 extends entirely between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10. The first jack cradle 21 can extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10.

[0119] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the jack system 20 further includes a plurality of jack cassettes 28. The jack cassettes 28 are used to lift (or lower) an object over a length greater than the stroke length of the jack 23. The jack 23 is fitted to lift the first jack cassette 28a to a first position, a first raised position, over the length of its stroke. Thus, the jack 23 is moved to the extended position, while it engages with the first jack cassette 28. The first jack cassette is then supported in the first raised position, and the jack 23 retracts to its retracted position. The second jack cassette 28b is positioned on the jack surface, and the first jack cassette 28a continues to be supported in the first raised position. Next, jack 23 lifts the second jack cassette 28b to the first raised position, and the first jack cassette 28a moves upward together with the second jack cassette 28b. This process is repeated until the first jack cassette 28a reaches its desired height. The steps are then performed in reverse order to lower the first jack cassette 28a again.

[0120] In this embodiment, the jack 23 has an upper jack surface which is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The jack holder 22 has an opening 29 which allows the jack cassettes 28, 28a, and 28b to be inserted onto the upper jack surface when the upper jack surface is in its retracted position. The opening 29 is located, for example, on the side or bottom of the jack holder 22.

[0121] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the first trailer module 10 further includes a power unit 30, which is adapted to control the rotation of the wheels 11 of the first trailer module. The power unit 30 is positioned on the first trailer module 10 on the side opposite to where the first jack cradle 21 is connected to the first trailer module 10.

[0122] In this embodiment, the trailer module 10 includes a secondary loading bed connector 18 for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the first trailer module 10 to the loading bed of a second further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed. The secondary loading bed connector 18 is located below the upper surface 16 of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10. The secondary loading bed connector 18 is located on the opposite side of the loading bed 15 from the primary loading bed connector 17. In this embodiment, the power unit 30 is connected to the trailer module 10 by the secondary loading bed connector 18.

[0123] Optionally, the power unit 30 is configured to control the rotation of the wheels 11 of the first trailer module 10. Optionally, the power unit 30 is configured to control the rotation of the wheels 11 of the first trailer module 10 around the horizontal rotation axis 12 and around the vertical rotation axis 13. Optionally, the power unit 30 is configured to independently control the rotation of each of the multiple wheels 11 of the first trailer module 10. Optionally, the power unit 30 is configured to independently control the rotation of each of the multiple wheels 11 of the first trailer module 10 around the horizontal rotation axis 12 and around the vertical rotation axis 13. Optionally, the power unit 30 is configured to control the rotational speed of each wheel 11 around its horizontal rotation axis 12.

[0124] Optionally, the power unit 30 includes a hydraulic system for controlling the rotation of at least one wheel 11, or optionally, for controlling the rotation of all wheels 11 of the first trailer module 10.

[0125] Optionally, the power unit 30 is also adapted to control the jack 23 of the jack system 20.

[0126] Figure 2 schematically shows an embodiment of the jack cradle 21 that may be used in the present invention.

[0127] The jack cradle 21 includes a jack holder 22, which is adapted to accommodate a jack 23 (see Figure 1). The jack holder 22 includes a space in which a jack can be placed. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, a mounting element 22a is positioned inside the jack holder 22, and the jack can be secured to the mounting element 22a inside the jack holder 22.

[0128] The jack holder 22 has an opening 29, which allows a jack cassette to be inserted onto the upper jack surface of a jack placed inside the jack holder when the upper jack surface is in its retracted position. In this embodiment, the opening 29 is located on the side of the jack holder 22.

[0129] The jack cradle 21 further includes a primary cradle connector 25, which is connectable to the primary loading bed connector 17 of the first trailer module. Thereafter, the primary cradle connector 25 is adapted to connect the first jack cradle 21 to the first trailer module 10.

[0130] The jack holder 22 extends below the primary cradle connector 25.

[0131] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the first jack cradle 21 further includes a secondary cradle connector 26, which allows for the attachment of additional trailer modules and / or jack systems.

[0132] A jack cradle 21, as shown in Figure 2, can be applied to any of the jack systems described above or below.

[0133] Figure 3 schematically shows an embodiment of the trailer jack system according to the present invention, which can also be used as a jack system in a trailer system according to the present invention and in a method for transporting an object according to the present invention.

[0134] The trailer jack system shown in Figure 3 may be used as a jack system 20 in a trailer system according to the present invention and in a method for transporting an object according to the present invention, and includes a jack cradle 21.

[0135] The jack cradle 21 includes a jack holder 22, which is fitted to accommodate a jack 23 (see Figure 1). The jack holder 22 includes a space in which a jack can be placed.

[0136] The trailer jack system further includes multiple jack cassettes 28, 28a, and 28b.

[0137] The jack cassette 28 is used to lift (or lower) an object over a length greater than the stroke length of the jack 23. The jack 23 is adapted to lift the first jack cassette 28a to a first position, a first raised position, over the length of its stroke. Thus, the jack 23 is moved to the extended position, while it engages with the first jack cassette 28. The first jack cassette is then supported in the first raised position, and the jack 23 retracts to its retracted position. The second jack cassette 28b is positioned on the jack surface, and the first jack cassette 28a continues to be supported in the first raised position. The jack 23 then lifts the second jack cassette 28b to the first raised position, and the first jack cassette 28a moves upward together with the second jack cassette 28b. This process is repeated until the first jack cassette 28a reaches the required height. The steps are then performed in reverse order to lower the first jack cassette 28a again.

[0138] The jack holder 22 has an opening 29 which allows jack cassettes 28, 28a, and 28b to be inserted onto the upper jack surface of a jack placed inside the jack holder when the upper jack surface is in its retracted position. In this embodiment, the opening 29 is located on the side of the jack holder 22.

[0139] In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the trailer jack system further includes a feeder mechanism 35, which is adapted to insert a jack cassette 28 into an opening 29 and to position it above the upper jack surface.

[0140] In this embodiment, the trailer jack system further includes a support mechanism 36, which is adapted to support a jack cassette 28a, or a stack of jack cassettes 28, 28a, 28b. When the jack cassette 28a, or the stack of jack cassettes 28, 28a, 28b needs to be raised or lowered relative to the jack cradle 21, the support mechanism 36 releases the jack cassette 28a, or the stack of jack cassettes 28, 28a, 28b, allowing the desired movement up or down. When the jack cassette 28a, or the stack of jack cassettes 28, 28a, 28b is brought back to the desired position by the jack, the support mechanism 36 re-engages with the jack cassette 28a, or the stack of jack cassettes 28, 28a, 28b.

[0141] The jack cradle 21 further includes a primary cradle connector 25, which is connectable to the primary loading bed connector 17 of the first trailer module. Thereafter, the primary cradle connector 25 is adapted to connect the first jack cradle 21 to the first trailer module 10.

[0142] The jack holder 22 extends below the primary cradle connector 25.

[0143] In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the first jack cradle 21 further includes a secondary cradle connector 26, which allows for the attachment of additional trailer modules and / or jack systems.

[0144] Figure 4 schematically shows a second embodiment of the trailer system 1 according to the present invention. In the embodiment of Figure 4, the trailer system includes the following array: a first trailer module 10, a first jack system 20, and a second trailer module 110.

[0145] The trailer system 1 in Figure 4 includes a first trailer module 10. In this embodiment, the first trailer module 10 is a trailer module of a self-propelled modular trailer (SPMT) system.

[0146] The first trailer module 10 includes a plurality of wheels 11. Optionally, at least some (and optionally, all) of the wheels 11 are rotatable around a horizontal axis 12 and pivotable or rotatable around a vertical axis 13. Optionally, the position of each wheel 11 around its vertical axis of rotation 13 can be controlled individually, allowing the first trailer module 10 to move in all directions over the surface on which it is positioned. Optionally, the rotational speed of each wheel 11 around its horizontal axis of rotation 12 can be controlled individually.

[0147] In this embodiment, the wheels 11 are grouped in pairs, and rotation around the horizontal axis 12 and / or rotation around the vertical axis 13 is controlled for each pair of wheels.

[0148] The first trailer module 10 further includes a loading bed 15. The object to be transported will either be placed directly on the loading bed 15 or on a loading bed support placed on the loading bed 15. The loading bed has an upper surface 16.

[0149] The first trailer module 10 further includes a primary loading bed connector 17 for rigidly connecting the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10 to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed. The primary loading bed connector 17 is located below the upper surface 16 of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10.

[0150] The trailer system shown in Figure 4 further includes a first jacking system 20. The first jacking system 20 includes a first jacking cradle 21. The first jacking system 20 is, for example, the jacking system shown in Figure 3.

[0151] The first jack cradle 21 includes a jack holder 22 (see Figure 2) and a jack 23. The jack 23 is housed within the jack holder 22.

[0152] The first jack cradle 21 further includes a primary cradle connector 25, which is connected to the primary loading bed connector 17 of the first trailer module. Thereafter, the primary cradle connector 25 connects the first jack cradle 21 to the first trailer module 10.

[0153] The jack holder 22 extends at least partially below the upper surface 16 of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10. The jack holder 22 also extends at least partially below the primary cradle connector 25. In this embodiment, the jack 23 is positioned below the upper surface 16 of the loading bed 15, and also below the primary loading bed connector 17 and below the primary cradle connector 25.

[0154] As can be seen in Figure 4, the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10 has a long side and a first short side, and the first jack system 20 is connected to the first short side of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10. The first jack system 20 does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10, and therefore the width of the first jack system 20 extends entirely between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10. The first jack system 20 can extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10. In the embodiment of Figure 4, the first jack cradle 21 does not extend beyond the width of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10. Therefore, the width of the first jack cradle 21 extends entirely between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end (which is opposite to the first longitudinal end) of the first short side of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10. The first jack cradle 21 can extend above and / or below the first short side of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10.

[0155] In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the first trailer module 10 further includes a power unit 30, which is adapted to control the rotation of the wheels 11 of the first trailer module. The power unit 30 is positioned on the first trailer module 10 on the side opposite to where the first jack cradle 21 is connected to the first trailer module 10.

[0156] In this embodiment, the trailer module 10 includes a secondary loading bed connector 18 for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the first trailer module 10 to the loading bed of a second further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed. The secondary loading bed connector 18 is located below the upper surface 16 of the loading bed 15 of the first trailer module 10. The secondary loading bed connector 18 is located on the opposite side of the loading bed 15 from the primary loading bed connector 17. In this embodiment, the power unit 30 is connected to the trailer module 10 by the secondary loading bed connector 18.

[0157] Optionally, the power unit 30 is configured to control the rotation of the wheels 11 of the first trailer module 10. Optionally, the power unit 30 is configured to control the rotation of the wheels 11 of the first trailer module 10 around the horizontal rotation axis 12 and around the vertical rotation axis 13. Optionally, the power unit 30 is configured to independently control the rotation of each of the multiple wheels 11 of the first trailer module 10. Optionally, the power unit 30 is configured to independently control the rotation of each of the multiple wheels 11 of the first trailer module 10 around the horizontal rotation axis 12 and around the vertical rotation axis 13. Optionally, the power unit 30 is configured to control the rotational speed of each wheel 11 around its horizontal rotation axis 12.

[0158] Optionally, the power unit 30 includes a hydraulic system for controlling the rotation of at least one wheel 11, or optionally, for controlling the rotation of all wheels 11 of the first trailer module 10.

[0159] In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the trailer system further includes a second trailer module 110. In this embodiment, the second trailer module 110 is a trailer module of a self-propelled modular trailer (SPMT) system.

[0160] The second trailer module 110 includes a plurality of wheels 111. Optionally, at least some (and optionally, all) of the wheels 111 are rotatable around a horizontal axis 112 and pivotable or rotatable around a vertical axis 113. Optionally, the position of each wheel 111 around its vertical axis of rotation 113 can be controlled individually, allowing the second trailer module 110 to move in all directions over the surface on which it is positioned. Optionally, the rotational speed of each wheel 111 around its horizontal axis of rotation 112 can be controlled individually.

[0161] In this embodiment, the wheels 111 are grouped in pairs, and rotation around the horizontal axis 112 and / or rotation around the vertical axis 113 is controlled for each pair of wheels.

[0162] The second trailer module 110 further includes a loading bed 115. The object to be transported will either be placed directly on the loading bed 115 or on a loading bed support that is placed on the loading bed 115. The loading bed has an upper surface 116.

[0163] The second trailer module 110 further includes a primary loading bed connector 117 for rigidly connecting the loading bed 115 of the second trailer module 110 to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed. The primary loading bed connector 117 is located below the upper surface 116 of the loading bed 115 of the second trailer module 110.

[0164] The first jack cradle 21 includes a secondary cradle connector 26, which is connected to the primary loading bed connector 117 of the second trailer module 110, thereby connecting the first jack cradle 21 to the second trailer module 110.

[0165] As a result, the first jack cradle 21 is positioned between the first trailer module 10 and the second trailer module 110.

[0166] Optionally, additional trailer modules and / or additional jacking systems and / or power units may be present in this embodiment of the trailer system.

[0167] Figure 5 schematically shows a third embodiment of the trailer system 1 according to the present invention. In the embodiment of Figure 5, the trailer system includes two arrays. The first array includes a first trailer module 10, a first jack system 20, and a second trailer module 110. The second array includes a third trailer module 210, a second jack system 120, and a fourth trailer module 310.

[0168] The first jacking system 20 and the second jacking system 120 are, for example, the jacking systems shown in Figure 3.

[0169] The first array and the second array are connected to each other by a first connector beam 40. The first connector beam 40 has a first end 41 and a second end 42, the first end 41 being connected to the jack cradle of the first jack system 20 and the second end 42 being connected to the jack cradle of the second jack 120. In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the first connector beam 40 is a grid beam.

[0170] In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the first trailer module 10 is of the same type as, for example, the first trailer module 10 in the embodiment shown in Figure 4.

[0171] In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the second trailer module 110 is of the same type as, for example, the second trailer module 110 in the embodiment shown in Figure 4.

[0172] In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the third trailer module 210 is of the same type as, for example, the first trailer module 10 in the embodiment shown in Figure 4.

[0173] In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the fourth trailer module 310 is of the same type as, for example, the second trailer module 110 in the embodiment shown in Figure 4.

[0174] In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the first array is provided with a power unit 30, and the second array is provided with a power unit 130.

[0175] Figure 6 schematically shows a fourth embodiment of the trailer system 1 according to the present invention. In the embodiment of Figure 6, the trailer system includes two arrays. The first array includes a fifth trailer module 410, a first jack system 20, a first trailer module 10, a second trailer module 110, a second jack system 120, and a sixth trailer module 510. The second array includes a seventh trailer module 610, a third jack system 220, a third trailer module 210, a fourth trailer module 310, a fourth jack system 320, and an eighth trailer module 710.

[0176] The first jack system 20, the second jack system 120, the third jack system 220, and the fourth jack system 320 are, for example, the jack systems shown in Figure 3.

[0177] The first array and the second array are connected to each other by a first connector beam 40 and a second connector beam 50. The first connector beam 40 has a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to the jack cradle of the first jack system 20 and the second end being connected to the jack cradle of the third jack 220. In the embodiment of Figure 6, the first connector beam 40 is a grid beam. The second connector beam 50 has a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to the jack cradle of the second jack system 120 and the second end being connected to the jack cradle of the fourth jack 320. In the embodiment of Figure 6, the second connector beam 50 is a grid beam.

[0178] In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the trailer module 10 is of the same type as, for example, the first trailer module 10 and / or the second trailer module 120 in the embodiment shown in Figure 4.

[0179] In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the first array is provided with a power unit 30, and the second array is provided with a power unit 130.

[0180] Figure 7 shows the trailer system 1 according to the embodiment of Figure 6, in use for transporting the pipe rack 800.

[0181] Figure 8 shows the first trailer system 1 according to the embodiment of Figure 6, and the second trailer system 1 according to the embodiment of Figure 6, both being used to transport the bridge deck 900 together. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0182] 1. Trailer System 10. First trailer module 11 wheels 12. Horizontal axis, horizontal rotation axis 13. Vertical axis, vertical rotation axis 15 Loading Beds 16 Upper surface 17 Primary Loading Bed Connector 18 Secondary Loading Bed Connector 20. First Jacking System 21. First jack cradle 22 Jack holder 22a Mounting element 23 Jack 25 Primary cradle connector 26 Secondary cradle connector 28 Jack cassette, 1st jack cassette 28a First jack cassette 28b Second jack cassette 29 Opening 30 Power Units 35 Feeder Mechanism 36 Support Mechanism 40 First connector beam 41 First end 42 Second end 50 Second connector beam 110 Second Trailer Module 111 wheels 112 Horizontal axis, horizontal rotation axis 113 Vertical axis, vertical rotation axis 115 Loading Bed 116 Upper surface 117 Primary Loading Bed Connector 120 Second Jack System 130 Power Unit 210 Third Trailer Module 220 Third Jack System 310 Fourth Trailer Module 320 Fourth Jacking System 410 Fifth Trailer Module 510 Trailer Module No. 6 610 Trailer Module No. 7 710 Trailer Module No. 8 800 Pipe Rack 900 Bridge Deck

Claims

1. A trailer system, wherein the trailer system is - A first trailer module, wherein the first trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the first trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, The first trailer module includes, - A first jacking system including a first jacking cradle, wherein the first jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed in the jack holder, - Primary cradle connector, wherein the primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the first trailer module, thereby connecting the first jack cradle to the first trailer module, Includes, The jack holder of the first jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, The jack system further includes a jack cassette, The jack has an upper jack surface that is movable between a retracted position and an extended position, and the jack holder has an opening that allows the jack cassette to be inserted onto the upper jack surface when the upper jack surface is in its retracted position, the first jack system, Includes, The trailer system further includes a second trailer module, the second trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the second trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, Includes, The first jack cradle includes a secondary cradle connector, which is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the second trailer module, thereby connecting the first jack cradle to the second trailer module. The first jack cradle is positioned between the first trailer module and the second trailer module. Trailer system.

2. The trailer system according to claim 1, wherein the jack holder extends at least partially below the primary cradle connector.

3. The trailer system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the jack has an upper jack surface, the upper jack surface being retractable to a position below the level of the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, or to the same level as the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module.

4. The trailer system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the retracted position of the upper jack surface is located below the level of the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module.

5. The trailer system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first trailer module further includes a power unit, the power unit is adapted to control the rotation of the wheels of the first trailer module, and the power unit is positioned on the first trailer module on the opposite side from where the first jack cradle is connected to the first trailer module.

6. The trailer system further includes a third trailer module, the third trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the third trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the third trailer module, Includes, The trailer system further includes a second jacking system including a second jacking cradle, the second jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed in the jack holder, - Primary cradle connector, wherein the primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the third trailer module, thereby connecting the second jack cradle to the third trailer module. Includes, The jack holder of the second jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the third trailer module. The trailer system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a first connector beam, the first connector beam having a first end connected to a first jack cradle and a second end connected to a second jack cradle.

7. A trailer system, wherein the trailer system is - A first trailer module, wherein the first trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the first trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and - A secondary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the first trailer module to the loading bed of a second further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the secondary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and the secondary loading bed connector is located on the opposite side of the loading bed from the primary loading bed connector, The first trailer module includes, - A first jacking system including a first jacking cradle, wherein the first jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed in the jack holder, - Primary cradle connector, wherein the primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the first trailer module, thereby connecting the first jack cradle to the first trailer module, Includes, The first jack system further includes jack cassettes (28, 28a, 28b), The jack of the first jack system has an upper jack surface that is movable between a retracted position and an extended position, and the jack holder of the first jack system has an opening (29) that allows the jack cassette to be inserted onto the upper jack surface when the upper jack surface is in its retracted position. The jack holder of the first jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and is part of a first jack system. - A second jacking system including a second jacking cradle, wherein the second jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed in the jack holder, and - Primary cradle connector, wherein the primary cradle connector is connected to the secondary loading bed connector of the first trailer module, thereby connecting the second jack cradle to the first trailer module. Includes, The second jack system further includes jack cassettes (28, 28a, 28b), The jack of the second jack system has an upper jack surface that is movable between a retracted position and an extended position, and the jack holder of the second jack system has an opening (29) that allows the jack cassette to be inserted onto the upper jack surface when the upper jack surface is in its retracted position. The jack holder of the second jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and is part of a second jacking system. - A second trailer module, wherein the second trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the second trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, and - A secondary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the second trailer module to the loading bed of a further second trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the secondary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, and the secondary loading bed connector is located on the opposite side of the loading bed from the primary loading bed connector, A second trailer module, including, - A third jacking system including a third jacking cradle, wherein the third jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed in the jack holder, - Primary cradle connector, wherein the primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the second trailer module, thereby connecting the third jack cradle to the second trailer module. Includes, The third jack system further includes jack cassettes (28, 28a, 28b), The jack of the third jack system has an upper jack surface that is movable between a retracted position and an extended position, and the jack holder of the third jack system has an opening (29) that allows the jack cassette to be inserted onto the upper jack surface when the upper jack surface is in its retracted position. The jack holder of the third jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, and is part of a third jack system. - A fourth jacking system including a fourth jacking cradle, wherein the fourth jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed in the jack holder, - Primary cradle connector, wherein the primary cradle connector is connected to the secondary loading bed connector of the second trailer module, thereby connecting the fourth jack cradle to the second trailer module. Includes, The fourth jack system further includes jack cassettes (28, 28a, 28b), The jack of the fourth jack system has an upper jack surface that is movable between a retracted position and an extended position, and the jack holder of the fourth jack system has an opening (29) that allows the jack cassette to be inserted onto the upper jack surface when the upper jack surface is in its retracted position. The jack holder of the fourth jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, and is part of a fourth jack system. - A first connector beam, the first connector beam having a first end connected to the first jack cradle and a second end connected to the third jack cradle, - A second connector beam, the second connector beam having a first end connected to the second jack cradle and a second end connected to the fourth jack cradle, Includes, The trailer system includes a first array and a second array, the first array including the first jack system, the first trailer module, and the second jack system, and the second array including the third jack system, the second trailer module, and the fourth jack system. A trailer system in which, in addition to the first trailer module and the second trailer module, a further trailer module is present in at least one of the arrays.

8. A trailer system, wherein the trailer system is - A first trailer module, wherein the first trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the first trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and - A secondary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the first trailer module to the loading bed of a second further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the secondary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and the secondary loading bed connector is located on the opposite side of the loading bed from the primary loading bed connector, The first trailer module includes, - A first jacking system including a first jacking cradle, wherein the first jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed in the jack holder, - Primary cradle connector, wherein the primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the first trailer module, thereby connecting the first jack cradle to the first trailer module, Includes, The first jack system further includes jack cassettes (28, 28a, 28b), The jack of the first jack system has an upper jack surface that is movable between a retracted position and an extended position, and the jack holder of the first jack system has an opening (29) that allows the jack cassette to be inserted onto the upper jack surface when the upper jack surface is in its retracted position. The jack holder of the first jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, and is part of a first jack system. - A second trailer module, wherein the second trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the second trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, and - A secondary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the second trailer module to the loading bed of a further second trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the secondary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, and the secondary loading bed connector is located on the opposite side of the loading bed from the primary loading bed connector, A second trailer module, including, - A second jacking system including a second jacking cradle, wherein the second jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed in the jack holder, and - Primary cradle connector, wherein the primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the second trailer module, thereby connecting the second jack cradle to the second trailer module. Includes, The second jack system further includes jack cassettes (28, 28a, 28b), The jack of the second jack system has an upper jack surface that is movable between a retracted position and an extended position, and the jack holder of the second jack system has an opening (29) that allows the jack cassette to be inserted onto the upper jack surface when the upper jack surface is in its retracted position. The jack holder of the second jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, The secondary loading bed connector of the first trailer module is connected to the secondary loading bed connector of the second trailer module, and is connected to a second jacking system. - A third trailer module, wherein the third trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the third trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the third trailer module, and - A secondary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the third trailer module to the loading bed of a second further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the secondary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the third trailer module, and the secondary loading bed connector is located on the opposite side of the loading bed from the primary loading bed connector, A third trailer module, including, - A third jacking system including a third jacking cradle, wherein the third jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed in the jack holder, - Primary cradle connector, wherein the primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the third trailer module, thereby connecting the third jack cradle to the third trailer module. Includes, The third jack system further includes jack cassettes (28, 28a, 28b), The jack of the third jack system has an upper jack surface that is movable between a retracted position and an extended position, and the jack holder of the third jack system has an opening (29) that allows the jack cassette to be inserted onto the upper jack surface when the upper jack surface is in its retracted position. The jack holder of the third jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the third trailer module, and is part of a third jacking system. - A fourth trailer module, wherein the aforementioned fourth trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the fourth trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the fourth trailer module, and - A secondary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the fourth trailer module to the loading bed of a second further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the secondary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the fourth trailer module, and the secondary loading bed connector is located on the opposite side of the loading bed from the primary loading bed connector, A fourth trailer module, including, - A fourth jacking system including a fourth jacking cradle, wherein the fourth jacking cradle is - Jack holder, and the jack housed in the jack holder, - Primary cradle connector, wherein the primary cradle connector is connected to the secondary loading bed connector of the fourth trailer module, thereby connecting the fourth jack cradle to the fourth trailer module. Includes, The fourth jack system further includes jack cassettes (28, 28a, 28b), The jack of the fourth jack system has an upper jack surface that is movable between a retracted position and an extended position, and the jack holder of the fourth jack system has an opening (29) that allows the jack cassette to be inserted onto the upper jack surface when the upper jack surface is in its retracted position. The jack holder of the fourth jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the fourth trailer module, The secondary loading bed connector of the third trailer module is connected to the secondary loading bed connector of the fourth trailer module, and a fourth jack system is connected to the fourth jack system. - A first connector beam, the first connector beam having a first end connected to the first jack cradle and a second end connected to the third jack cradle, - A second connector beam, the second connector beam having a first end connected to the second jack cradle and a second end connected to the fourth jack cradle, Includes, The trailer system includes a first array and a second array, the first array including a first jack system, a first trailer module, a second trailer module, and a second jack system, and the second array including a third jack system, a third trailer module, a fourth trailer module, and a fourth jack system, A trailer system in which, in addition to the first trailer module, the second trailer module, the third trailer module, and the fourth trailer module, a further trailer module is present in at least one of the arrays.

9. A method for transporting an object by a trailer system, the method is - A step of connecting a first jack system to a first trailer module in order to form a trailer system, wherein the first trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the first trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, Includes, The first jack system includes a first jack cradle, and the first jack cradle is - A jack holder, and a jack housed within the jack holder, wherein the jack has an upper jack surface; and - Primary cradle connector, Includes, - The jack holder of the first jack cradle extends at least partially below the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, The primary cradle connector is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the first trailer module, thereby connecting the first jack cradle and the first trailer module. The trailer system further includes a second trailer module, the second trailer module is - Multiple wheels, - Loading bed and, - A primary loading bed connector for rigidly connecting the loading bed of the second trailer module to the loading bed of a further trailer module in order to form a combined rigid loading bed, wherein the primary loading bed connector is located below the upper surface of the loading bed of the second trailer module, Includes, The first jack cradle includes a secondary cradle connector, which is connected to the primary loading bed connector of the second trailer module, thereby connecting the first jack cradle to the second trailer module. The first jack cradle is positioned between the first trailer module and the second trailer module, and includes steps and - The steps of positioning the upper jack surface of the jack at a position below the level of the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, or at the same level as the upper surface of the loading bed of the first trailer module, - A step of positioning the loading bed of the first trailer module below the object to be transported, - A step of moving the upper jack surface upward until the jack system engages with the object, The step of moving the upper jack surface upward until the jack system (20) engages with the object is, - The step of placing the first jack cassette (28a) above the upper jack surface, - A step of moving the upper jack surface upward, thereby raising the first jack cassette (28a) to a first raised position, - A step of supporting the first jack cassette (28a) in the first raised position, - A step of moving the upper jack surface downward while maintaining the first jack cassette (28a) in the first raised position, - The step of positioning a second jack cassette (28b) above the upper jack surface and below the first jack cassette (28a), - A step of moving the second jack cassette (28b) to the first raised position, thereby raising the first jack cassette to a second raised position located above the first raised position, Steps including, - A step of rotating the wheels of the first trailer module in order to move the trailer system and the object to the destination, Methods that include...

10. The method according to claim 9, further comprising the step of moving the upper jack surface upward until the jack system engages with the object, and then placing the object on the loading bed of the first trailer module, wherein the step comprises the step of lowering the upper surface of the jack.

11. The method according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising the step of moving the object upward and / or downward by the jack system after the trailer system and the object have been moved to a destination.

Images